A small Hello! from me
Since becoming a mum, more so a mum of two, I soon began to realise how much was lacking out there for parents/carers with young children in relation to play and stimulation. There are plenty of soft play areas, outdoor play areas, petting farms etc for older children but nowhere nearby for parents/carers to take young children to safely play, learn and develop. I would often feel envious of the lovely staff at my boys nursery or preschool settings, seeing the wonderful toys and all the fun they must have, and I would often think how amazing it would be to have the chance to play with my own children but in a room like that! Therefore, I felt strongly that I wanted to create a space that was warm, inviting, and that gave children and their grown ups the chance to really play and explore together.
I also have to admit that, at heart, I am still very much a big kid myself. It still now excites me at the thought of playing with the beautiful wooden kitchen, or serving customers in the supermarket with their little trollies and playing with the tills. And I am sure I am not alone with this! Therefore, my dream was to create an environment where adults can be kids again, and can be led by their own children in exciting, imaginative play.
Another driving factor for me, was finding somewhere that could meet the varying needs of my children. So many times I would find myself worrying about where my 4 year old son was lost in a giant soft play maze, whilst helplessly trying to entertain an 8 month old baby who was getting bored and cranky on my knee, and quite frankly bored of my singing! Or meeting a friend and both getting pulled in opposite directions by our defiant toddlers, therefore never being able to finish our conversation, or our hot coffee! At Lollipop Lane, wherever you are sat, whether it be in our sensory “garden’ with your baby, or on our comfy seats in the cafe area, you will be able to enjoy a hot drink and a chat with other adults, safe in the knowledge that you can see and interact with your child, and that they are having the time of their life!
Being a parent/carer can be extremely challenging and isolating at times and I wish to provide a safe space for parents to meet other parents and offer a supporting environment. My own experience as a parent, as well as my time as a Child Protection Social Worker, has taught me the importance of having a secure support network around you as a parent, and the detrimental effect not having such support can have on you and ultimately your children. Therefore, I feel passionate about Lollipop Lane being a platform to support other parents and for individuals to feel safe and supported by one another.
I am so excited to be able to share my dream with you all and cannot wait for you to visit Lollipop Lane. It really is a place to visit and relax, pour your heart out, laugh, nurture old friendships and even make new ones, connect with your child and watch as they flourish, and also enjoy some really good coffee and cake!!! We cannot wait for you to come along and visit.
All my love
Lauren xxx
Founder of Lollipop Lane
Meet the Team
Shirley
Hi I’m Shirley, Lauren’s mum. I’ve worked at Selby College for the past 15 years and loved every minute working alongside and supporting the students. However, I now have the opportunity to come and work with Lauren in the beautiful surroundings of Lollipop Lane, which I am super excited about! My family are so important to me and my happy place is being surrounded by my three gorgeous grandchildren. I’m really looking forward to meeting all you mummies, daddies, and grandparents, and getting to know your beautiful little ones!! You’ll find me in the kitchen preparing some yummy food for you all… and delicious hot coffee!
Fiona
Hi I’m Fiona (everyone calls me Fi!). I’m mum to three grown up children who have all flown the nest (for now!) but they will always be my greatest achievement. I have spent much of my working life being around young children and until Summer 2022 I worked as a Teaching Assistant in primary education in KS1 and foundation stage. I absolutely loved this role, especially seeing how much they learn and progress through imaginative play and imitating others. This is one of the reasons I am so excited and privileged to have the opportunity to work with Lauren and the team, and I can’t wait to meet you all at Lollipop Lane, and be back with my favourite “little people”. If I’m not busy making delicious food and drink for you all, then you might find me sneaking in some play time with the little ones!
Admission and Prices
Playtimes
Playtimes last for two hours, starting at 9:30am, 12pm and 2:30 pm Monday to Friday
Play prices
£15.00 per child plus £7.00 per sibling. First 2 adults free, additional adults £2.00.
Grown ups
Adult supervision is necessary for all children.
Our sessions run Monday-Friday and are bookable only via the website. The sessions are 2 hours each with a 30 minute window in between each to allow us to clean and set up ready for the next playtime! Please contact us for more information regarding exclusive hire and parties.
Adult supervision is 100% necessary for all children. Have a great time with your children at our cafe or play area.
